Simple Raspberry Gin Cocktail

Finding the perfect summer cocktail for casual gatherings can feel like a real puzzle. Between juggling different taste preferences and wanting something that’s both refreshing and interesting, it’s easy to fall back on the same old drinks we’ve made a hundred times before.

That’s where this raspberry gin cocktail comes in: it’s refreshing and easy to make, combines familiar flavors in a new way, and can be whipped up in batches for when friends drop by – plus, you can easily adjust the sweetness to suit everyone’s taste.

What Kind of Gin Should I Use?

For a raspberry gin cocktail, you’ll want to start with a quality London Dry gin as your base, though any traditional gin will work nicely. London Dry gins like Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire have strong juniper notes that pair really well with the sweetness of raspberries, while still letting the fruit shine through. If you prefer something a bit more subtle, try a modern-style gin like Hendrick’s, which has lighter botanical notes that won’t overpower the raspberry flavor. Just stay away from flavored gins for this recipe – the raspberry syrup will provide all the fruit flavor you need.

Options for Substitutions

This cocktail recipe is pretty flexible and you can make several swaps depending on what you have on hand:

• Fresh raspberries: If fresh raspberries aren’t in season, frozen ones work just as well for making the syrup. You could also try blackberries or strawberries for a different twist.
• Maple syrup: Simple syrup or honey can replace maple syrup – just use the same amount. If using honey, warm it slightly first so it mixes better.
• Gin: While gin is ideal for this cocktail’s botanical notes, vodka can work as a neutral alternative. For a non-alcoholic version, use extra sparkling water and a dash of juniper berry tea.
• Elderflower liqueur: No elderflower liqueur? Try a splash of rose water (just a few drops!) or skip it altogether – the cocktail will still taste great.
• Sparkling water: Club soda, tonic water, or any sparkling mineral water will work here. Just note that tonic water will add sweetness.
• Rosemary garnish: Fresh mint, thyme, or a lemon twist can stand in for rosemary as garnish. Or simply drop in a few fresh raspberries.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making

The biggest mistake when crafting this raspberry gin cocktail is using warm ingredients – make sure your gin, sparkling water, and raspberry syrup are properly chilled beforehand to avoid a watered-down drink from melting ice. When making the raspberry syrup, avoid overcooking the berries as this can create a bitter taste – instead, gently simmer them just until they break down and release their natural sweetness. To get the perfect balance, measure your ingredients precisely rather than eyeballing them, as too much elderflower liqueur can overpower the delicate raspberry notes, while too little gin won’t give you that classic cocktail kick. For the best presentation and taste, strain your raspberry syrup twice through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any seeds or pulp that could affect the smooth texture of your drink.

What to Serve With Raspberry Gin Cocktails?

This refreshing cocktail pairs perfectly with light appetizers that won’t overpower its delicate raspberry and botanical flavors. I love serving it alongside a cheese board with mild options like fresh goat cheese, brie, and mild cheddar, plus some honey and fresh berries. Small bites like cucumber sandwiches, smoked salmon crostini, or prosciutto-wrapped melon make excellent companions too. If you’re hosting happy hour, set out some mixed nuts and crispy crackers – the salty snacks create a nice balance with the sweet-tart drink.

Storage Instructions

Keep Fresh: The raspberry syrup is the key component you’ll want to save. Keep it in an airtight container or bottle in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It’s great to have on hand for making cocktails whenever friends drop by!

Prep Ahead: Make the raspberry syrup in advance – it actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together overnight. You can also prep lemon juice ahead and keep it in a small container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Mix: For the best taste and fizz, mix your cocktails right before serving. The sparkling water loses its bubbles quickly, and the ice will water down the drink if it sits too long. If you’re hosting, you can pre-measure the gin and raspberry syrup into glasses, then add the remaining ingredients when guests arrive.

Preparation Time	10-15 minutes
Cooking Time	10-15 minutes
Total Time	20-30 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 380-420
• Protein: 1-2 g
• Fat: 0-1 g
• Carbohydrates: 95-105 g

Ingredients

For the raspberry syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (I use Coombs Family Farms)
• 1 pint fresh raspberries

For the cocktail:

• 0.5 oz elderflower liqueur
• 1.5 oz gin (Hendrick’s is my go-to)
• 1.5 oz raspberry syrup
• 1 oz sparkling water
• rosemary sprigs
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• ice

Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Simple Syrup

Add raspberries, water, and maple syrup to a small saucepan.

Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the syrup to reduce by half.

This should take about 10 minutes.

Once reduced, strain the mixture to remove the raspberry solids and let the syrup cool completely.

This syrup will serve as a flavorful base for your cocktail.

Step 2: Mix the Cocktail

In a cocktail shaker, add gin, lemon juice, club soda, 1.5 ounces of the cooled raspberry simple syrup, and elderflower.

Add ice to the shaker, then shake well to combine and chill the ingredients.

This step ensures that all the flavors are thoroughly mixed and the cocktail is served cold.

Step 3: Serve the Cocktail

Strain the mixed cocktail into a cocktail glass to hold back the ice.

Serve immediately with one or two raspberry ice cubes for a touch of elegance (or regular ice cubes, if you prefer).

Finish the presentation with a fresh sprig of rosemary.

Not only will this add a delightful aroma, but it also increases the aesthetic appeal of your drink.